Auxiliary verb

May

The learning points for the auxiliary verb “May" are as follows.
・Expressing permission and conjecture
・The interrogative form is a polite tone that can be used in business. Can be substituted for “Can" in daily conversation

“May I help you?"
“May I ask what you’re looking for?"
“May I ask you some questions?"
“May I ask how much he makes?"
“May I have your name?"
“May I skip that meeting today?"

May I help you?
May I ask you some questions?
May I have your name?
May I skip that meeting today?
May I ask how much he makes?
May I ask what you're looking for?

Can

The learning points for the auxiliary verb “Can" are as follows.
・When used in interrogative sentences, it becomes an expression to ask about the possibility or convenience of others.
・If you ask about the other person’s ability, it will be a rude expression, so be careful.

“Can you work this weekend?"
“Can we negotiate for a better price?"

Can you work this weekend?
Can we negotiate for a better price?

Would

The learning points for the auxiliary verb “Would" are as follows.
・Past tense of “will"
・When used in interrogative sentences, it becomes a polite expression of hope.
・Can be used for business. Even more reserved and softer than “Could"

“Would you like a break?"
“Would you like to go by train or taxi?"
“Would you say that more slowly?"
“Would you check this when you have a chance?"

Would you like a break?
Would you like to go by train or taxi?
Would you say that more slowly?
Would you check this when you have a chance?

Should

The learning points for the auxiliary verb “Should" are as follows.
・Past tense of “Shall"
・If used in interrogative sentences, it becomes an expression to confirm the obligation to others.
・Softer than “Must"

“Should I bring my identification card?"
“Should we offer more money?"

Should I bring my identification card?
Should we offer more money?

Review

Can you memorize everything? Let’s check it in the English karuta below.

Can you work this weekend?
Can we negotiate for a better price?
Should I bring my identification card?
Should we offer more money?
May I have your name?
May I skip that meeting today?
Would you like a break?
Would you like to go by train or taxi?
May I help you?
May I ask you some questions?
Would you say that more slowly?
Would you check this when you have a chance?
May I ask how much he makes?
May I ask what you're looking for?